Letters -- Published Nov. 22, 2007

The Christian faith has abdicated its role in society to government bureaucracy.

The Christian faith has abdicated its role in society to government bureaucracy.

There's always enough money for building projects and other lofty goals. Bigger churches accommodate larger congregations so huge crowds can show up on Sunday morning and play "church."

The poor, homeless, hungry and lost have been very close to God's heart. The homeless need a place to live and Jesus in their hearts and lives.

Some churches are too small to support a homeless family or individual but could combine with other churches. Many large churches can and haven't.

Meanwhile, the homeless continue to be hungry, cold and lost.

Today, families gather to give thanks for our many blessings. As Americans start on that second helping of turkey or pie, they should be aware there are those without a place to go or anything to eat this Thanksgiving.

Those interested in helping can log onto KYCC.org and click on the homeless program link.

Leslie Davis

Stockton

Thanksgiving Day can be richer when associated with truth and love.

It's not primarily a question of religion, but of a healthy acceptance of the truth and the way things actually are in our universe.

We sit down with family and friends to consume turkey, sweet potatoes and pumpkin pie and take it all for granted.

Wouldn't it be better if the world picked up on this truth and allowed it to replace fear and hate?

Perhaps that would carry over into a more sensitive attitude toward our planet's pollution problems.

Thanksgiving started with the pilgrims and American Indians sitting together and celebrating the bounty of the harvest.

While giving thanks, they also embraced love and peace for one another.

If they had continued coming together like that through the years, wouldn't that have kept them from the heartache of the many wars to follow?

Tom Carroll

Stockton

One thing many people most likely will forget while they feast and visit with family and neighbors on Thanksgiving is that today also is the 44th anniversary of President Kennedy's assassination.

Kennedy was one of the most influential persons of the 20th century. His death was a great loss to our country and the world.

While many of us will tell our loved ones what we're thankful for today, few will give any thought to them on Black Friday as we push and shove each other out of the way to buy the newest iPod or the latest in fashions.

As we sit down to break bread and give thanks today, we should remember John F. Kennedy and remember we're all living this life together and are connected to each other by something.

Justin Gray

Stockton

The holiday shopping season is beginning.

Before folks go to the big chain stores and shopping centers, they should visit the Tidewater Art Center and Gallery at 223 E. Weber Ave., across from the San Joaquin County Courthouse in downtown Stockton.

The original artwork - oils, pastels, photographs, glass art, pottery and jewelry - would be something special as a gift.

They have low prices, the purchaser would be supporting the local arts community, and the recipients would be getting one-of-a-kind art.

People also can make a day of it by taking a lunch break between shopping.

There are good restaurants and other shopping outlets and new downtown venues and redevelopment to be discovered.

Byron R. Roberts

Stockton

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